Ongoing discussion

Arga felt an urge to smile or even embrace Ningning, but he reminded himself of his own mandate: act like an emperor. Keeping his face impassive, he simply said, "Thank you," before stepping out with quiet resolve.

Ningning remained in the room, tidying up the documents and notes they had worked on together. Deep down, she knew that the small steps they had taken today marked the beginning of something monumental, something that would alter the history of Kasghar forever. The brightening morning light heralded a new chapter in their struggle—a chapter brimming with hope and challenges.

Outside the palace, the morning breeze carried the scent of damp earth and spices from the Kasghar market, which was beginning to stir. The chatter of merchants mingled with the creak of cart wheels, creating a familiar harmony for the city's inhabitants. Their eyes occasionally glanced toward the grand structure—the palace standing proudly atop the hill. A sense of awe mixed with unease lingered in their expressions. A new empire had risen, but whispers of doubt still echoed among them. Would this empire truly protect the people? Could it bring prosperity in a world fraught with uncertainty?

Inside the palace, the atmosphere was starkly different. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, dancing across gilded marble pillars. The grand hall was filled with district leaders and elders from across the region. Some conversed quietly, while others sat in silence, their faces reflecting a blend of respect and anticipation. On one side of the room, arpin sat with his son, clad in a long robe that signified his status. On the other side, Ayato stood with a sturdy posture, accompanied by his right-hand man, a Korean known for his sharp intellect. All eyes were fixed on Arga, who now stood at the center of the hall.

Arga stood tall, his gaze sweeping across the room. His eyes radiated authority, ensuring that everyone felt his presence. Every movement was purposeful; every step, every breath exuded unwavering confidence. The previous night, he had spent hours delving into the intricacies of governance, the empire, and its laws. Yet, there was no sign of fatigue or hesitation in him that morning.

In a calm yet firm voice, Arga opened the meeting. "Thank you for being here. Our time is precious, and there are pressing matters we must resolve today." He paused, letting the silence settle over the room, lending weight to his words.

He glanced at Ningning, who stood not far from him. A small nod from her was all he needed. With unshakable confidence, Arga continued, "As emperor, I will ratify every decision we make today. For points requiring collective agreement, Ningning will provide the details."

The room fell silent, save for the sound of breaths and the ticking of time that seemed to slow. All eyes turned to Ningning, who stepped forward with measured steps. Her presence was both graceful and commanding, her hands holding a neatly arranged stack of documents. She stood before the meeting table, taking a deep breath before speaking.

"First," Ningning began with a resolute voice, "we have agreed that our system of governance will be an empire. The emperor will hold supreme authority encompassing the executive, judicial, and legislative branches. To support this governance, the Imperial Advisory Council will be established. This council will include various power institutions, with Brother Arpi, Ayato, and myself serving as high-ranking officials directly under the emperor."

Ningning's words flowed smoothly, each phrase carefully chosen to reflect a structured vision. She continued, detailing the formation of imperial institutions, from the judiciary to local policies in the districts. The attendees listened intently, their pens gliding over paper. The scattered sheets on the table silently bore witness to the empire's grand ambitions.

"For defense," Ningning added, "we will establish three main agencies: intelligence, military, and public security. Additionally, the Chancellor of Finance, Chancellor of Education, Chancellor of Foreign Affairs, Chancellor of Agriculture, and Chancellor of Research will be appointed to lead each strategic sector."

The room remained silent. Only the sound of pens scratching paper could be heard, capturing Ningning's words in their notes. She paused, meeting the gaze of each attendee, ensuring everyone grasped the direction being taken.

Her gaze lingered on Arga, who stood with commanding authority in his place. Outside, the morning sun began to cast its light, piercing through the tall windows and creating long shadows on the marble floor. The room seemed to bear witness to the dawn of a new chapter, a journey that would determine Kasghar's fate for generations to come.

The morning sunlight filtered through the palace's tall windows, dancing across the cold marble floor. In the grand hall, district leaders and regional elders gathered in tense anticipation, each carrying their hopes and anxieties. Arga stood at the center, his presence silencing the faint murmurs in the corners of the room.

"As an initial measure," he declared in a steady tone, "each district will contribute 10% of their revenue. However, once stability is achieved, this levy will be discontinued. The empire will manage imperial enterprises, ensuring that taxes will never again be imposed on the people."

Soft murmurs began to ripple through the room, but Ningning, standing beside Arga, swiftly continued in a clear, firm voice, "Due to our hidden position, trade with nearby cities will be conducted through a single channel—the empire's official trade body. All external district trade must follow this route."

The warming sunlight illuminated the attentive faces in the room. Ningning calmly folded her documents, stepping back to her place. On the other side, Arga surveyed the attendees with a gaze full of conviction. "Tomorrow morning," he announced, "the results of the selection for the best officials will be revealed. Those chosen will be inaugurated to fill key positions in our imperial government."

Ningning added, stepping forward with measured confidence, "One more matter to address. We will establish a national imperial logistics center to ensure the availability of food, currency, and military weaponry. This step will form the foundation of our empire as we face the future."